Arianespace Targets 7 Launches For 2009

Launcher elements for the sixth mission in 2009 with Arianespace's workhorse Ariane 5 in 2009 are now at the Company's South American Spaceport, and are ready for assembly as the newest heavy-lift vehicle. These components were delivered aboard the MN Colibri, which is one of two sea-going vessels that transport Arianespace launchers from their manufacturers in Europe.

Using the MN Colibri's roll-on/roll-off configuration, the Ariane 5's cryogenic core stage and upper stage were driven from the ship at Pariacabo port near the city of Kourou to the Spaceport - where they were positioned in the Launcher Integration Building's receiving area. This launcher will be the 192nd Ariane family vehicle assembled at the Spaceport. It is part of a record year for mission activity with the Ariane 5, during which Arianespace is targeting a total of seven launches.

Ariane 5 File Photo

The 190th Ariane family vehicle lifted off from the Spaceport's ELA-3 launch pad late last week, using a heavy-lift Ariane 5 ECA to orbit the JCSAT-12 and Optus D3 telecommunications satellites. It was Arianespace's fourth flight with the Ariane 5 in 2009. Arianespace's next mission - the 191st flight for a member of the Ariane family - will utilize an Ariane 5 ECA that has completed its build-up in the Launcher Integration Building. This vehicle is now ready for its transfer to the Spaceport's Final Assembly Building.

FMI: www.arianespace.com